Black maintains shoulder issue in past

NEW YORK -- Vic Black, who was shut down for the remainder of the season after a Sept. 13 relief appearance, suggested Thursday that the slightly herniated disk in his neck that was pressing on nerves and causing shoulder weakness is no longer an issue.

Black started workouts three weeks ago and began playing catch last week. He plans soon to start tossing a baseball every other day.

"Everything feels good," Black said. "I haven't had any aches or issues. I wake up in the morning and feel normal."